Dumaguete, Philippines: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Dumaguete, Philippines? If you're planning to go to Dumaguete, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Dumaguete, Philippines

Based on the climate and weather in Dumaguete, Philippines, the best time to go is April. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Dumaguete, Philippines

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Dumaguete, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Dumaguete, Philippines by month

January

If you visit Dumaguete during January, you are likely to find that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you intend to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Dumaguete can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you intend to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Dumaguete can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you intend to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you vacation in Dumaguete during April, you might notice that it is really hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you choose the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May in Dumaguete is extremely hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to get the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

If you intend to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you go to Dumaguete in June, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you intend to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you go to Dumaguete in July, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to get the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you intend to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you visit Dumaguete during August, you will probably see that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you intend to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you are traveling to Dumaguete in September, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to pick the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you vacation in Dumaguete during October, you might see that it is really hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to find the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you intend to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you visit Dumaguete during November, you may see that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you intend to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you vacation in Dumaguete during December, you might see that it is constantly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you intend to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Dumaguete, Philippines

Dumaguete is a small yet vibrant city located in the province of Negros Oriental in the Philippines. Often referred to as the "City of Gentle People," Dumaguete offers tourists an unmatched combination of friendly locals, rich culture, and breathtaking natural wonders. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Dumaguete that one must visit:

1. Silliman University Anthropology Museum

Silliman University Anthropology Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone who loves to learn about different cultures. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from various indigenous groups in the Philippines. There are also interactive exhibits and displays that highlight the rich history and cultural heritage of Dumaguete and the surrounding region.

2. Apo Island

Apo Island is a small island located near Dumaguete that is world-famous for its pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life. The island is popular among scuba divers and snorkelers who come to explore the vibrant coral formations and the colorful fish that call these waters home.

3. Rizal Boulevard

Rizal Boulevard is a popular promenade that offers stunning views of the sea and the city skyline. It is also one of the best places to watch the sunset in Dumaguete. The boulevard is lined with palm trees, and there are several restaurants and cafes along the way where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the view.

4. Casaroro Falls

Located in the nearby town of Valencia, Casaroro Falls is a magnificent waterfall that drops from a height of over 100 feet. The falls are nestled in a lush forest setting, and visitors can hike through the scenic trails leading to the base of the falls.

5. Dumaguete Cathedral

Dumaguete Cathedral, also known as St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral, is a beautiful church that dates back to the 1800s. The cathedral is known for its ornate architecture and stunning stained-glass windows. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to attend mass, weddings, and other religious ceremonies.

6. Forest Camp

Forest Camp is a natural and peaceful escape in the nearby town of Valencia. The camp is nestled in a lush forest setting and features natural pools, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It is the perfect place to relax and unwind while enjoying the beauty of nature.

7. Negros Oriental Arts and Heritage

The Negros Oriental Arts and Heritage Museum is an excellent place to learn about the culture and history of the province. The museum showcases the works of local artists, as well as artifacts and exhibits that highlight the rich cultural heritage of Negros Oriental.

Conclusion

Dumaguete offers tourists a unique blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. From the pristine coral reefs of Apo Island to the serene beauty of Forest Camp, Dumaguete has something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a quiet and relaxing escape, Dumaguete is the perfect destination.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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